I Finally Bought Some Jordans: Essays

Arceneaux’s latest collection of essays (after I Don’t Want To Die Poor) ranges far and wide, touching on topics from race and devastating loss to class, sexuality, and even Beyoncé. Arceneaux’s trademark wit runs throughout as he considers how he, a Black “geriatric” Millennial, has navigated the tumult of the 21st century. The author narrates his own work with somewhat mixed results. His performance is slightly static, creating a sameness that doesn’t allow his humor to come through as it does in print. Even so, his voice shines with sincerity when he touches on personal struggles, such as in “How It Feel Outside?,” where the weather acts as a springboard for him to reflect on his relationship with his parents. Listeners will be glad of this, as hearing the emotion in Arceneaux’s voice as he speaks about his loved ones brings a heartfelt touch that couldn’t be replicated by anyone else.